Dennis R. McHugh

Dennis McHugh of Latham, NY, formerly of East Northport, died suddenly at home on July 12, 2026, at the age of 80. 

He was known for his love of old movies, rock and roll music, and his devotion to his bride of 45 years, Maggie McHugh. Born in Astoria, Queens, he eventually settled in East Northport, Long Island. He was a 1966 graduate of Massapequa High School and worked for the US Post Office, where he enjoyed being the helpful guy behind the service counter. He followed many local bands and was usually the first on the dance floor. His poem “Positively Sunrise Highway” earned brief local fame. 

Maggie Smith entered his life, and they were married on Valentine’s Day, 1981. Both were active in local meetings, and together graduated South Beach Hospital’s program as Alcoholism and Substance Abuse counselors. Summers on Montauk Beach, in a room directly on the ocean, were an annual treat that continued even after their move to Latham in 2003, when he retired. After retirement, Dennis returned to college and completed his bachelor’s degree. He worked as a substance abuse counselor in Albany, earning permanent certification in that field. 

In addition to caring for Maggie as she became more disabled, he helped others learn and grow. Family, friends, and members of the fellowship are all invited to join in a memorial service on Friday, August 28, 10:30 AM, at Shaker Pointe, 1 Bell Tower Drive (off Delatour Road), Watervliet, NY.